Festivals

While only around 1% of Japan’s population identifies themselves as Christian, many Japanese families still enjoy Christmas festivities in their own distinctly Japanese way. Encouraged by businesses and the global entertainment industry, people in Japan largely celebrate a non-secular version of Christmas, complete with lights and Christmas trees (though neither at home!). This version of Christmas is interesting, if less spiritual.  Christmas Cake Families celebrate Christmas in Japan by eating “Christmas Cake” on Christmas Eve. Japanese Christmas cakes are different than traditional fruitcake styles popular in western Christmas celebrations. These are usually simple sponge cakes, frosted with whipped cream and often decorated with strawberries, Christmas chocolates, and other seasonal fruits. Christmas Cakes can be found basically everywhere during the holiday season, even convenience stores! The father traditionally purchases the cakes on their way home from work. Some buy at expensive department stores, but many come from folding tables set up at stations and sold like bento lunches. The average price for a Christmas cake is around 4,000 yen, but you can find cheaper and more expensive ones if you want. You can see some sample Christmas cakes here, at Amazon. Some family and friends will exchange presents, but this is…